How Much Does It Cost to Open a Coffee Shop in 2026?
Opening a coffee shop in 2026 requires careful cost planning across rent, equipment, labor, technology, menu strategy, marketing, and sustainability.
May 15, 2026
Opening a coffee shop in 2026 requires careful cost planning across rent, equipment, labor, technology, menu strategy, marketing, and sustainability.
May 15, 2026
This AI playbook covers restaurant tools for voice ordering, staffing, compliance, menu pricing, inventory, marketing, ChatGPT prompts, and SEO.
May 15, 2026
Hardee’s giant Boddie-Noell inks 31-unit Scooter’s Coffee deal for NC and VA, leveraging drive-thru growth and local roots with rollout over 12–18 months.
May 15, 2026
Wingstop turns match weeks into a multi-sensory festival, aligning bold pop-ups with World Cup energy to build brand affinity and measurable momentum.
May 15, 2026
The parent company behind Dunkin', Buffalo Wild Wings, and Arby's has filed for an IPO a move that could reshape how Wall Street views the restaurant sector.
May 15, 2026
Learn how to develop a memorable restaurant brand identity that stands out in a crowded market, attracts loyal customers, and drives repeat business with actionable strategies and affordable tools.
May 15, 2026
Dirty soda chain Swig is expanding into Colorado through a 10-unit franchise deal, riding a consumer beverage trend that's catching the attention of major QSR players nationwide.
May 15, 2026
Papa Johns has teamed up with Alphabet's Wing for drone delivery of its new sandwich lineup in parts of Charlotte marking the first partnership of its kind between Wing and a national QSR brand.
May 15, 2026
A warm, expert-led look at McDonald’s Q1 results, menu makeover, and the refranchise question shaping its growth.
May 14, 2026
A reflective look at Habit Ranch, its immersive desert activation, and what it signals for brand loyalty and mindful, experiential dining.
May 14, 2026
Unlock Exclusive Access To Webinars, Events, And The Latest News For Free!
Discover how El Pollo Loco's CEO, Liz Williams, transformed restaurant operations to drive efficiency, cost savings, and elevate employee performance.

Upon assuming the role of CEO at El Pollo Loco, Liz Williams embarked on a mission to enhance operational efficiency within the restaurant chain. By prioritizing margin improvement and identifying quick wins, Williams aimed to bring margins back to desired levels, creating a more sustainable business model. This strategic focus on efficiency is crucial for long-term success in the competitive restaurant industry.

To bolster sales and attract a broader customer base, El Pollo Loco introduced a range of value offerings, including $5 deals on bowls, salads, and burritos. By expanding the menu to cater to different price points, the chain aimed to provide customers with diverse options, showcasing its commitment to offering value in multiple ways. This approach not only drives transactions but also prevents the brand from being pigeonholed as a discount-focused establishment.

Under Williams' leadership, El Pollo Loco shifted its product strategy to prioritize innovation and brand relevance. By focusing on launching new products and revamping the marketing calendar to showcase fresh offerings, the chain aims to stay ahead of consumer preferences and trends. The introduction of unique items like mango habanero chicken and a potential chicken sandwich signals a departure from industry norms and a step towards asserting its brand identity.
In a bid to optimize costs and streamline operations, El Pollo Loco rolled out new restaurant prototypes and integrated technology solutions like kiosks. By embracing contemporary designs and utilizing technology for efficiency, the chain not only reduces build costs but also enhances the overall customer experience. This strategic approach aligns with modernizing the brand and catering to evolving consumer preferences.
Employee training and development played a vital role in the operational overhaul led by Liz Williams. By implementing new standards and focusing on labor deployment, El Pollo Loco aimed to improve service speed and quality. Empowering employees with the right skills and placing them in strategic roles enhances overall operational effectiveness, leading to a better customer experience and increased operational productivity.